Official Publication of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey The greenersidE July - August 1994 • Volume 17 Number 4 Five minutes with Arnold Palmer All good writers do their research first, then move on to the interview. As a superintendent trying to be a good writer, I did the interview first, then searched for information on my subject. And so it went as by Doug Vogel I headed over to the Upper Montclair C.C. to interview Arnold Palmer during the Cadillac NFL Golf Classic. Out of respect for the hard work of Bob Dickison, ICGCS, and his staff, I made certain I parked in the rough of the B-lot even though I could have parked closer to the media tent on the finer cut turf. As it turned out, it didn’t matter where I parked. Rain, four car tires, and golf course turf did not make for a pleasant combination. I didn’t personally do any damage, but I did see a very large Cadillac sunk up to its axles along one of the service roads. In spite of all this turmoil, the members of the Upper Montclair C.C. can rest easy knowing the repairs to their showplace are in the experienced hands of the dedicated professional golf course superintendent they all know as “Red.” Arnold Palmer In this issue Editorial President's Message GCSANJ NEWS Rules of Golf C.C. Championship 2 3 5 10 Reflections on the 1994 Cadillac NFL Classic 11 Golf course cuisine X marks the spot The truth leaks out Back nine 13 16 22 26 I met Mr. Palmer in the locker room after his Friday round and introduced myself as a writer for the award winning Greenerside newsletter. I told him I was a golf course superintendent, and I was new at the interview business. He was most gracious and invited me back to his locker to field my questions. Now keep in mind my reason for interviewing Arnold Palmer was due to the fact that I knew as a youth he worked on a golf course. So in my buffoonery I proceeded to ask the first question, “Did you ever work in golf course maintenance?” He smiled and half chuckled, “Boy, you really are new at this.” With the ice now broken I proceeded onward. Arnold Palmer said he learned the maintenance business “from a tough taskmaster, my father, Deacon Palmer.” The senior Palmer was the superintendent/pro at Continued on page 4 The greenerside GCSANJ Newsletter is published six times a year by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey Ilona Gray, Editor Newsletter Business Staff Ken Krausz Contributing Writers Douglas Vogel, Edward Walsh, Shaun Barry Steve Malikowski Please address inquiries to: Editor, The Greenerside P.O. Box 3672, Wayne, NJ 07474-3672 For Ad Placement: Judy Policastro (201) 379-1100 Art and Typography by Trend Multimedia 908-787-0786 • FAX 908-787-7212 GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION OF NEW JERSEY 66 Morris Ave., Suite 2A Springfield, New Jersey 07081 201-379-1100 • FAX 201-379-6507 Officers: Chris Carson, President Martin G. MantelI, CGCS, Vice President Paul Powondra, Secretary Glenn Miller, Treasurer David Pease, Past President Directors District 1 Ken Krausz, CGCS Joe Kennedy District 2 Vincent Bracken Ron Mencl District 3 Fran Owsik Dennis Shea District 4 Thomas I. Grimac Steve Malikowski Executive Secretary Judy Policastro Commercial Representatives Steve Chirip Shaun Barry © 1994 THE GREENERSIDE Opinions expressed in this Newsletter are the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily express the opinions or policies of the GCSANJ Board and its membership. No part of this newsletter may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. Printed on recycled paper EDITORIAL Diversion by Ilona GrayE veryone needs one once in a while. Diversions are those mental health breaks that we all take that permit us to stick to our knitting or keep our nose to the grindstone or, in golf jargon, to keep hitting them straight. We need to take a little break from our routine to keep us sharp and allow us to see things in a different perspective. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Expressions like that are not the culmination of some five-thou­ sand page thesis on creativity; they come from a basic understanding of what it takes to get through a tough job. None of this should be new to those who manage golf courses. Every year brings a new set of challenges, and 1994 is no exception. The brutal winter, the spring season, and now summer require a vigilant effort for successful turf management. With every­ thing going on right now, you may hesitate to take off for a week and just vacation. This is the work season, and it’s intense. A diversion, however, does not have to take a lot of time to produce a lot of benefit, and that’s why I am recommending one so strongly. It’s easy to think about big diversions. Sail a one-person boat around the world. Hike to Patagonia or work to break the most of the Guinness Book of World Records. Attempting a big diversion could be serious to your professional and family well being and must not be attempted without some serious thought. Little diversions bring little risk and often great benefits to both family and career. Look around your course and you will probably be able to spot enough work to be done to keep you and your staff busy for years. Work can be challenging, but staying creative and enthusiastic all season long is a real test of your metal. Watch your performance and determine if a little diver­ sion is just what the doctor might order. Perhaps it’s an outing with the family or a few hours of volunteering for your favorite charity. Maybe it’s a round of softball with your staff or a picnic at your favorite spot. Regard- Continued on page 13 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Like clockworkLike it is for most of the membership, June and July are the busiest times of the year here at Echo Lake. It’s a time when I rely most on my crew to know and do what is needed, and I am indeed fortunate to work with terrific people who get the job done. GCSANJ does not stop because we are busy, and we are all beneficiaries of the continuing efforts of our Board and Committee members. The working of our Association moves quietly on, and I would like you to be aware of some of the work being done in your behalf. Our charity fund-raiser planning is well on its way, as is the legal finalizing of our GCSANJ Foundation. Field Day work has begun, and it looks like this event will be even better than last year’s acclaimed success. Preliminary work goes on with regard to broadening our member benevolent and relief activity. The Greenerside comes out like clock­ work in its excellent award-winning style. The meeting and golf schedule is full and running smoothly, and plans are already underway for next year’s events. Our strong financial health is being monitored, our internal management is operating on all cylinders, and our long range planning continues. In short, the Association is in full swing. It is my pleasure to observe our hard working Board members and Committee members, and to see the myriad of contributions of all types from the entire membership that help makes us so successful. Without this hard work and contribution, GCSANJ would surely not exist as we know it—and as President I want to take this moment to thank every single person who is working to better our association. Your efforts are appreciated! Welcome to Steve Malikowski who rejoins the Board as District Four director. Pat Wall has, regrettably, resigned his Board position because of job commitments, and we will miss his thorough and thoughtful work. Thanks, Pat, and welcome, Steve! Chris Carson President, GCSANJ Calendar July 26-30 August 3 August 4-7 August 5 August 8-9 USGA Junior Amateur Champi­ onship, Echo Lake C.C. Superin­ tendent, Chris Carson. Contact USGA, (908) 234-2300. Turfgrass Research Field Day, Cook College Horticultural Farm II, North Brunswick. Recertification Credits. Contact Bea Divine, NJ Turfgrass Association, (908) 821- 7134. MGA Amateur Championship, Hackensack G.C. Superintendent, Richard Lane. Contact MGA, (914) 689-0390 Professional Golf Turf Manage­ ment School, Application Due Date. Fall Session. The actual session is October 3- December 9. (908) 932-9271. US Healthcare Classic, Rock Spring C.C. Superintendent, Wayne Remo. Contact PGA, (908) 521- 4000. Sept. 20-22 August 10-11 Penn State Turfgrass Field Days, Turfgrass Research Center, Univer­ sity Park, PA. Contact George Hamilton, (814) 865-3007. Micholob/PGA Championship, Montclair G.C. Superintendent host is Greg Vadala. Contact PGA, (908) 521-4000. September Monthly Meeting, Echo Lake G.C. The Invitational Tournament. Contact Judy Policastro, (201)379-1100. Professional Golf Turf Manage­ ment School, Application Due Date. Winter Session. The actual session is from Jan. 2-March 10. Contact, (908) 932-9271. Sept. 27 Oct. 21 Five minutes with Arnold Palmer Continued from page 1 the Latrobe C.C. for 55 years. “You worked hard for Deacon Palmer, or you found another job,” Palmer pointed out clearly. “We did everything by hand. We hand raked traps, pulled weeds out of the greens by hand. We had no chemicals, and we hand cut the greens. Now sure, many of us still hand cut greens, but I think I can safely say we all have engines on our greens mowers. We cut the greens with a push mower with no motor,” Palmer said with a grin. “If you leaned too much on the handle it came off the green. Keeping a uniform height of cut took concentration,” Mr. Palmer said. This acquired concentra­ tion would certainly be put to use later in Mr. Palmer’s other career. We all remember the Pennzoil commercial featuring Mr. Palmer tooling around on an old Worthington tractor. That was modem equipment compared to the tractors of his youth. “We had old Fordson tractors with steel wheels. They had spikes in them for traction.” Mr. Palmer had a look of amusement on his face when he mentioned GREEN T LIQUID FERTILIZER For golf course greens, tees and other fine turf areas. ■ Clear liquid-100% water soluble ■ Compatible with pesticides ■ Does not leach or evaporate ■ Maintains rich green color Quick green up ■ Low burn potential • Organic Nitrogen Controlled release ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE The Grass Is always Greener on the GREEN-T side!. PLANT FOOD COMPANY, INC. Manufacturers of Fluid Fertilizers Hightstown-Cranbury Station Road Cranbury, NJ 08512 • 609-448-0935 800-562-1291 • FAX 609-443-8038 the Fordson. I think he realized I didn’t have a clue, and he was right. I had never heard of Fordson until he told me about it. The fascinating part of the interview was the unspo­ ken part, the observations I made while in his presence. It was interesting to see that Mr. Palmer never turned away He carried his own permanent marker and personalized every hat, program picture, and issue of The Greenerside given to him. "Ilona, how do you spell Ilona?" any requests for autographs or photo opportunities. He carried his own permanent marker and personalized every hat, program picture, and issue of The Greenerside given to him. “Ilona, how do you spell Ilona?” Mr. Palmer asked as he wrote his best wishes to our editor. Mr. Palmer made my day as he put the brakes on a reporter from Time magazine who was trying to butt in with “just one quick question.” Obviously this journalistic hack did not understand the importance of The Greenerside inter­ view. I thanked Mr. Palmer for his time, and I asked him if he would answer one more question. He said, “No prob­ lem—shoot.” “What jobs were you particularly good at?” I asked. Without hesitation Mr. Palmer replied, “You had to be good at everything.” Editor’s Note: I wanted to finish Doug Vogel’s interview with a question of my own, so I faxed the following to Mr. Palmer’s executive assistant, Doc Giffin, to ask the titan of golf: “Based upon your experience as a young man in golf course maintenance and a lifetime as a professional player, what would you recommend that golf course superintendents do to make the courses more payable for the golfers?” Arnold Palmer’s answer came back short, to the point, and a rather pleasant surprise, “In my opinion and experience, most superintendents are constantly trying to make their golf courses more enjoyable for their players. I really don’t have any specific suggestions.” There could not be a better endorsement to what you are already accomplishing! GCSANJ NEWS Carpinelli & Larson, and Geer & Owsik. This competition should prove interesting to follow. Dr. Jim Murphy gave us an informative presentation. He had a very receptive audience because everybody ate so much food that nobody could move. Once again Fiddler’s Elbow was a superb host, and I hope they know how thankful we are for their efforts. WELCOME TO A NEW EDITION Dave and Jane Mayer proudly announce the newest member of the GCSANJ. Kyle Mayer was bom on June 6, 1994 (D-Day + 50 + one person). Nineteen hours of labor were tough for Jane and Dave, but it was worth it. Kyle weighed 7 pounds 12 ounces and was 21 1/2 inches long. Continued on page 6 Frank A. Macchione Construction Inc. • Specializing in Cart Paths • Waterfall Ponds • Rock Gardens • Water Aerator • Landscape Designing • Tee Building 168 Midwood Road Paramus, N.J. 07652 652-0694 FIDDLER’S PLAYS HOST by Shaun Barry On May 9, 1994, Dave McGhee gave us the chance to get a sneak preview of his nearly-completed 3rd eighteen at Fiddler’s Elbow C.C. Many people took advantage of the opportunity, and they were impressed. It will be another great addition to Paradise (that is another name for New Jersey in case you didn’t know). Following the tour, 122 people headed out to challenge the course. The only posi­ tive things that happened were nobody got lost and every­ body really enjoyed themselves. Tom Grimac once again set the standard as he shot 76. He also joined John Betts, Steve Chirip, Ed Kutt, Rich­ ard Lane, and Bob Scott with one skin each. Rich Krok had the longest drive, and B. Scott’s closest to the pin was overshadowed by the near ace that Mark Sinto had on the other closest to the pin hole. He was 1 1/2" away (I wonder how much drinks for 140 people would cost?). In the Modified Stableford Tournament, S. Chirip won his first-ever monthly event when he blitzed the field with 53 points (his invitation to the Masters should arrive soon). E. Kutt had 49 points, Ed Casteen had 47, Ed Walsh had 46, and M. Sinto finished fifth with 45 points. The first round of the two-man net team championship was completed. The number one seeded team of Grimac & Pricket defeated Harsin & Lane in a close match that was once again highlighted with Bob catching fish while Tom made the putts (what a team!). The other winning teams were Campbell & Mickens, Betts & Mitchell, Finnesey & Ruzsbatzky, Fountain & Kunesch, Mellor & Stiles, am P.0. BOX 680 ASBURY PARK, NEW JERSEY 07712 IN NJ (908)774-4882 FAX (908)775-3288 OUTSIDE NJ (800) 242-7374 TEE TO GREEN ACCESSORIES, MAINTENCE & SAFETY ITEMS! YOUR NEW JERSEY MANUFACTURER WITH ONE STOP SHOPPING. FOR CATALOG AND PRICING INFORMATION CALL 800-242-7374 GCSANJ NEWS Continued from page 5 ESSEX FELLS WELCOMES US AGAIN by Shaun Barry Essex Fells C.C. proves that familiarity does not necessarily breed contempt. This course has been the site of many of our monthly meetings over the years. They are glad to have us, and this year we proved how happy we were to be there. Our projections for attendance were from 90 to 100. When we reached 115 the club notified us that this would be the limit for the dining room. Our host superintendent (Larry Dodge) and the club manager (Hubert Conrad) immediately started to help. Through their efforts, we ended up with 124 for dinner but still had 20 people on the waiting list. Attendance at meetings has increased over the years so this could happen again. Get your applications in early for all future meetings because attendance is based on a first come, first served basis. If this problem continues we may have to change our regis­ tration policy, but we will keep you informed if this becomes necessary. The condition of the course explains why this is such a popular venue. It was perfect. Larry had said there would be areas marked off with white paint. I was all over the course, and the only white paint that I saw was in the parking lot. Donald Ross would be very proud. Many of our people said that they really enjoyed themselves, but I know better. I saw their scorecards. Only a few people actually had a good time. Ian Kunesch was Don’t Fall Into The Same Old Trap Call on Dallenbach - Pros in quality sand products - to supply all your course needs. White Trap Sand - Washed Sand Screened Top Soil - Crushed Stone 908-580-3910 DALLENBACH SAND CO., INC. BOX 333 • DAYTON, NEW JERSEY 08810 one of them. He shot 74 and took low gross honors. He also joined up with Gerald Fountain in the team event to defeat the talented duo of Ed Mellor and Gene Stiles. They join Paul Geer and Fran Owsik in the next round. Dave “One Iron” Oatis did not have such a good day. He shot 75, had four birdies, won nothing and had me as a partner, and Dave Pease was in our group. Will he ever return? Ken Mathis won our Match Play vs. Par event on a match of cards with Bill Beverlin. Both were +7. Wayne Foster (+4) was next, and he was followed by John O’Keefe (+2), Steve Chirip (+2), and Ed Walsh (+2). Kevin Giles had the longest drive with the only good shot he hit all day (his words). He must have shot it out of a cannon. The closest to the pin honors went to Paul Snyder and “Lefty” Dodge. Four skins held up. They belonged to D. Pease, Matt Dobbie, Phil Scott, and F. Owsik (I think Continued on page 7 GOLF COURSE CONSTRUCTION and RENOVATION ❖ Tees ❖ Greens ❖ Bunkers ❖ New Construction Tom Ristau - Division Manager Richie Valentine - Turf Consultant PA phone: (215)659-6411 (215)659-9317 PA fax: NJ phone: (609) 466-1500 Member of: Golf Course Superintendents Assoc. of America Golf Course Superintendents Assoc. of New Jersey Philadelphia Assoc. of Golf Course Superintendents Huntingdon V alley, PA Hopewell, NJ GCSANJ NEWS Continued from page 6 District III has been practicing.). Following an absolutely wonderful dinner, Pete Pedrazzi made us laugh, think, and cry. He did a great job taking us down memory lane while getting us to prepare for the future. What a great finish to a memorable day. Thanks to everyone at Essex Fells C.C. for their efforts. The hospitality was extraordinary. Jeffrey had been a spray technician at Fiddler’s Elbow C.C. for the past two and a half years, when he was accidently killed while spraying greens and tees. The accident occurred on the back of the new 14th tee on the Forest Course. Apparently, as Jeff was making a turn on the back of the tee, he evidently lost control of the vehicle which flipped and pinned him under the cart. Efforts to revive Jeff were unsuccessful. Jeff had been previously employed at Beaver Brook Country Club and other courses in Arizona. He will be remembered at Fiddler’s Elbow for his dedication and enthusiasm. IN MEMORIAM It’s with great sadness that we report the tragic acci­ dental death of Jeffrey Lake at the age of twenty-five. Continued on page 8 SPECIAL OFFER! 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Dist. 2 Dist. 4 Dist. 2 Dist. 3 Dist. 4 Dist. 2 Dist. 4 Dist. 4 Dist. 2 Dist. 4 Dist. 3 Dist. 1 Dist. 2 Dist. 4 The following membership status has been upgraded: Richard LaBar, Jr. B-l to B Black Bear G. & C.C. Dist. 1 FEATURES... Wide 100" Mowing Width. Progressive, Selective, All-Wheel Drive. Independent Full-Floating/Pivoting Reels.' Easily Adjustable Height of Cut. Choice of Onan 24 hp Gas or Kubota 22 hp Diesel Powered Engine. BUNTON 5-GANG FAIRWAY MOWER BUNTON 1-800-899-SOIL (7645) FAX (301) 335-0164 Sterilized Top Dressing Our top dressing is formulated especially for your area to specifications recommended by leading universities and testing laboratories. EXCLUSIVE! All materials are thoroughly mixed and sterilized by indirect heat in our special process. The sand particles are actually coated with a mixture of top soil and peat humus for a completely homogenous mixture that will not separate during handling and spreading. Computerized blending of soil mixtures for a superior growing medium. Green and tee construction materials and mixes conforming to specifications are available. Custom on-site soil blending and testing with a portable computerized blender to meet your speci­ fications are available. Double Eagle EQUIPMENT COMPANY, INC. 285 Dayton Jamesburg Road Dayton, New Jersey 08810 • (908,) 329-9292 The “Reel” World by John Martin, Jr. Heat is the word of the day. Blistering temperatures and smothering humidity in June gave us a taste of what the approaching New Jersey summer has in store for golf courses around the state. Mechanics at e course are busy keeping reels sharp and dealing with the multitude of odds and ends breakdowns that the new season brings with it. very Ridge C.C., (201) 575-8207, or Gary Droz of Ridgewood C.C., (201) 599-3938. The Mechanics Association is also busy at this time of year. Mike Kompier is updating the equipment users’ list. To help accomplish this task, he would like anyone who hasn’t already done so to fill out the equipment users’ list mailer that was sent out this winter and send it in. The equipment users’ list catalogues, by make and model, the equipment at each golf course. Should you run into a problem with a repair, you can quickly locate someone with the same machine who may provide the insight needed to keep down-time to a minimum. If you did not receive a users’ list or would like to get some information on joining the N. J. Golf Course Mechan­ ics Association, please contact Bob Ray of Mountain Since 1923 MATERIALS FROM THE EARTH'S CRUST Geo. Schofield Co., Inc. P.O. BOX 110, BOUND BROOK, NEW JERSEY 08805 Bunker Sands • Construction Gravels Construction Sands/Blends • Cart Path Materials Topdressings • Landscape Materials • SUPRGRO Construction Blends and Topsoil Customized blends available with our new mobile blending equipment. U.S.G.A. specification products. (908) 356-0858 PARTAC TOP-DRESSING GOLF COURSE AMERICA'S PREMIUM TOP-DRESSING HEAT TREATED AVAILABLE IN BULK OR BAGS PLUS GREEN & TEE CONSTRUCTION MIXES, WHITE TRAP SANDS, CART PATH & DIVOT REPAIR MIXES AND MUCH MORE! DISTRIBUTED IN NJ. BY: FARM & GOLF COURSE SUPPLY HOWARD SCOTT, 215-483-5000 FISHER & SON CO. FRANK FISHER, 215-644-3300 GRASS ROOTS TURF PRODUCTS KEN KUBIK, 201-361-5943 TURF PRODUCTS CORP. ERNIE RIZZIO, 201-263-1234 KELSEY PARK, GREAT MEADOWS, NEW JERSEY 07838 PARTAC PEAT CORPORATION 908-637-4191 Rules of Golf C.C. Championship a hard fought match by Ken Krausz, CGCS With Doug Vogel and Glen Gallion acting as course officials, the championship was played in the heat of the day on June 16. Heat does not only refer to the 90 degrees plus for the day, but also the pressure that surrounded the event. While walking through the parking lot of the Essex Fells Country Club, both Jim Pelrine and I were met by many members of GCSANJ asking about the match. I knew the pressure was on. After a great lunch I still had not spotted my opponent and thought, maybe I’ll win by default, or maybe Jim was preparing for some kind of grand entrance. I kept looking toward the sky figuring that maybe he would be landing on the first tee by parachute. It did not happen; Jim and I met about ten minutes before tee time, and the usual courtesies were exchanged. On the first tee, which was actually the 11th (you know Distributors of FLORATINE Auxiliary Nutrients & Soil Amendments For Information Call Mel Fifer at 717-456-5172 how at these big tournaments sometimes the holes are changed), Jim and I decided that it would be a straight match, and we proceeded to tee off. After beating me by a stroke or two on that first hole, we decided that we would play the match by holes also; you know, that way we could each win and everyone would be happy. Larry Dodge and his crew did an excellent job of The low spot of the day was when yours truly hit a shot out of the rough and off of a tree. It went ten yards backwards before hitting Doug in the hand. preparing the course, as did the pro shop and clubhouse staff in taking care of the rest of the day. Our caddie, Dick, had his hands full with us; he really earned his pay in that heat. I could not get a handle on those greens; they were true and slick, something that I do not get to play on too often, and I will say that if I had been able to sink a few of those putts, the results would have been different. By now you are asking, “Well, how badly did Jim beat you?” I do not have my card with me, so the following may be a little off, but it went something like this: Jim shot an 83 and I had an 85, and he beat me in match play when we halved the last hole. Hold on, my memory is coming back, and I actually think that those are Doug’s and Glen’s scores. The day was not without its high points. When Jim hit a great drive on what I will refer to as the rock hole, our whole foursome almost fell over from laughter when his second shot hit that rock dead center and sent his ball into the woods. His third shot bounced off a tree dead center (I heard that Dennis DeSanctis also hit the rock; it must be a company thing). The low spot of the day was when yours truly hit a shot out of the rough and off of a tree. It went ten yards backwards before hitting Doug in the hand. Sorry, Doug, but when your lawyer contacted mine he was told that with the way I was playing you had no case unless you were wearing hockey gear. Jim saw the ball coming and pushed you out of the way, so I guess we can thank him for saving you a trip to the hospital. Let’s just say that Jim had a better day than I golf- wise, but friendships were the rule for the day, and every­ one who played that day were the true champions. Reflections on the 1994 Cadillac NFL Golf Classic by Robert Dickison The majority of our work for the month of May was spent on preparing the course for the Seniors Tournament. We installed temporary fencing to protect the East nine greens and tees, to delineate the tournament course from the parking, and for general crowd control. In all, over a mile and a half of fence was installed in the week prior to the tournament. This all had to be removed in two days so the course could be ready for play at 8 a.m. Wednesday following the tournament. The new clubhouse patio and cart path were finished during the first week of May, and the landscaping was installed at the beginning of the second week. Twenty thousand square feet of sod was laid on the new club lawn area. At the same time, 12,000 flowers were planted in the beds throughout the course. All of this was accomplished in just two weeks time. While all of the planting and landscaping was going on, Golf Turn-Key Construction Golf Course Construction Inc. TEE AND GREEN CONSTRUCTION DRAINAGE . RETAINING WALLS IRRIGATION . PONDS OTTERBINE INSTALLATION 908-469-7782 MEMBER OF NJ TURF GRASS ASSOC. & GCSANJ the course was brought into tournament condition. To get all of this work finished before the start of tournament week, we increased our green staff of 17 to 20 and worked ten hours a day. For the tournament week, two additional people were brought in just to mow fairways in the after­ noons, and two others were hired to work in the parking lot. We were able to have the course in tournament condi­ tion by the Friday prior to tournament week. At that time the weather was perfect, but that didn’t last long; by Monday the rain started. The first four days were cold and rainy; during that time we received 1.3" of rain. By Friday morning we had a very wet and soggy golf course. Friday afternoon saw the weather start to change, and the weekend turned out to be very nice. Through it all the golf course held up very well. Through the rainy spell we put down over 350 bales of straw in areas of heavy gallery traffic. The straw helped to Continued on page 12 Creeping Bentgrass It's outperforming some well-known competition with its dense, upright growth and attractive color! To learn more contact: Lofts Seed Inc. Chimney Rock Rd. Bound Brook, NJ 08805 (908) 356-8700 • (800) 526-3890 LOFTS 1994 Cadillac NFL Golf Classic Continued from page 11 soak up the excessive wetness and to protect the grass from being trampled. On the golf course roadways and parking lot, 200 plus tons of road stone were used to keep our roadways open and to build temporary roads on the East nine. All of the road work was done on Friday and Saturday to keep the parking areas open and operating. By using the driest areas on the East course and shifting from area to area, we were able to protect the fairways from any major damage while parking over 14,000 cars for the week. Steve Bock, our assistant golf course superintendent, ran the parking lots and did an excellent job of keeping the East course from being severely dam­ aged by the traffic and, at the same time, keeping the traffic flowing. When considering all that went on during the week the course came through relatively unscathed. planted just in the rough. The areas that were used for practice have been aerated, overseeded, and topdressed. Again this year we were loaned extra equipment by some of our distributors: an intermediate rough mower by This year's slightly higher cut was dictated by the stresses caused by the extreme winter. Still the greens reached a speed of 10-8 by end of the tournament. the Steven Willand Co., a sweeper by the Storr Tractor Co., and a small pickup truck and two greens rollers by the Wilfred MacDonald Co. Turf Field Day scheduled The date for this year’s Turfgrass Research Field Day has been set for August 3,1994, at the Turf Research Center (Horticulture Farm II), North Brunswick. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. “rain or shine.” Guided field tours will commence at 9:15 a.m. Recertification credits will be awarded at the conclusion of the program, so mark your calendars now for this worthwhile event. For further information, contact New Jersey Turfgrass Association, Milltown office, (908) 821-7134 or Dick Caton at (609) 853-5973. With all the wetness, the course continued to provide excellent playing conditions. Fairways were somewhat softer than normal, which caused some problems with the golf carts. The clean and place rule was instituted by the PGA throughout the tournament. Greens remained in top condition, being groomed, rolled, and double cut at .140" daily. This year’s slightly higher cut was dictated by the stresses caused by the extreme winter. Still the greens reached a speed of 10-8 by end of the tournament. Each evening of the tournament, the greens crew were given dinner before they started their chores. This con­ sisted of feeding 25 men each night. Arrangements were made with the tournament concessionaire or an outside caterer for each night’s meal. This proved to be a job in and of itself. The new club lawn needs to be replaced along with a few small areas on the East where stone was put down and an area behind 3 and 7 West greens. I think that the other worn areas will recover fairly soon. To increase their recovery, the worn areas were aerated and 900 lbs. of seed JOSEPH M. MERCADANTE, Inc. PAVING, EXCAVATING Millburn, NJ 201-467-8622 SERVING THE TURFGRASS INDUSTRY OF THE GARDEN STATE grass roots turf products, inc. • DRAINAGE SYSTEMS • TEE BUILDING • GRADING KEN KUBIK (201) 361-5943 Golf course cuisine Dear Golf Course Superintendents: This letter is part confession and part plea for your cooperation. I’m always hungry and playing on a course is no exception. What to eat? What to eat? Dining out is always a choice, but sometimes when at the course, you just can’t get away. A simple lunch from home could satisfy, or I can stop by at the club house. Often, though, I sneak out on the course and eat it. I’ve not been stopped by any superintendents as yet and hope not to be. But you have to appreciate just how good some of the main courses on the courses can be. A golf course contains a literal cornucopia of delicacies, and, if pre­ pared correctly, could serve as a fancy feast for even the most discerning gourmand. The common bracken fern, sometimes called the pasture Sweeney Seed Company 488 Drew Court / King of Prussia, Pa. 19406 /1 -800-544-7311 Certified Turfgrass Seed Providence Creeping Bentgrass Dominant Creeping Bentgrass Mixture Champion Perennial Ryegrass Mixture On Course™ Fertilizers with Nutralene All Formulas on Micro Prills All Formulas on Mini Prills All Formulas on Standard Prills Production and Research Seed Research of Oregon, Inc. The Andersons Fertilizer Company Call Jeff Shockley at 1-800-544-7311 brake, makes an excellent appetizer. Just poach the young, tender singular growing sprouts in salted water and serve up with a cream sauce on toast. Yummy! The older stems and leaves are not only tougher, but they’re toxic. If I don’t have time to cook, I’ll dig into an old crown of an Ostrich fern and find the “nut” or “banana.” This is up to an inch thick and has a nutty flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked. The common cattail (Typha) can serve up several tasty dishes. In the summer, the cattail produces its spike-like flower. When the upper half of the flower stalk is covered with a thin, green husk, cut it off. Peal the husk and simmer until tender. Eat it like corn on the cob. It’s nutritious and filling! The cattail pollen can be used like flour to make pancakes or crepes or biscuits. I can help you out if you have a Continued on page 15 Diversion Continued from page 2 less, the few hours that most diversions take pay back many fold by re-invigorating and re-energizing you or your staff. The GCSANJ is an excellent source for a diversion. Little diversions could include a short note for The Greenerside. For example, Doug Vogel took a five-minute diversion to interview Arnold Palmer at the Upper Montclair CC Cadillac Classic. If writing is not your diversion, attend the monthly GCSANJ meetings. Some­ times just reading The Greenerside is a good diversion from the daily task at hand. Work, too, can be a diversion from work. This is the case when the work done is different from your usual tasks. GCSANJ Committee work is a diversion from the usual daily tasks which benefits not only the GCSANJ, but those who work for it as well. Here are some basic guidelines to maxing out on a diversion. To get the most out of a mental health break first commit the time you think you can spare and then double it. Next make a list of your five favorite things and throw it out and list five things that fit the allowed time. These should include things that you have either never done or haven’t done in a long, long time. Drop those things that are destructive or vindictive. (Don’t fly to Singapore with a can of spray paint and hope to become an artist!) Select the most productive item on your list and just do it! Introducing the First Complete Line of Potassium Nitrate-Based Turf Products. Supported by Research You’ve read the studies. A desirable ratio of potassium and nitrogen makes stronger turf requiring less maintenance. You know this is a higher ratio of potas­ sium to nitrogen than you’re applying now. Controlled-Release: the Key But what choice have you had? Controlled-release materials are the basis of advanced turfgrass fertility programs. And until recently, controlled-release potassium nitrate has not been available. Now K-Power’s MultiCote® controlled-release coating allows you to apply the benefits of potassium nitrate-based fertilization across your entire program: Greens Grade, Fairways, even Combination products. K-Power® Builds Stronger Turf K-Power’s potassium helps turf plants better regulate water levels in their tissue and increase cell wall thickness. The plant is better able to resist temperature and drought stress as well as fungus and insect attacks. Without costly chemical treatments. Stiffer leaves support the A COMPLETE LINE OF POTASSIUM NITRATE-BASED PROFESSIONAL TURF PRODUCTS golf ball for better shot­ making. Even if you mow a little higher. Clippings are reduced because K-Power’s desirable ratio of potassium to nitrogen reduces the rate of leaf growth. And the low salt index of chlorine-free K-Power potassium nitrate makes it one of the safest turf fertilizers available. Unique Formulas The Greens Grade line includes the only ammoni­ ated homogenous products that combine the benefits of methylene urea and potassium nitrate. The Fairway Blends provide a unique 50/50 ratio of controlled-release nitrogen to controlled- release potassium. For the growth and green-up you need. When you need it. Trial Programs Contact your distributor for more information on K-Power and the world’s most perfect trial program. Or call us at 1-800-227-2798.KPOWER ©1994 Vicksburg Chemical K-Power, MultiCote and the Sergeant K character are registered trademarks of Vicksburg Chemical. (It’s about time.) Golf course cuisine Continued from page 13 crabgrass or goosegrass problem. Just collect the seeds, thresh them or grind them with a mortar, and I’ll cook them up like wild rice. If broadleaves such as purslane are your problem, I can help too. They can be prepared as wilted greens or stir fried in bacon fat. The leaves are quite edible in a salad. Some of nature’s wild plants, such as wild asparagus, cook up just like the stuff you can get in the grocery store. Time for dessert. Blackberries, raspberries, wild black cherries, crab apples, and so much other good fruit is frequently in reach. Chokecherries, which are red, can be eaten as well. They should be cooked first and can be made into a delicious chokecherry soup. There are some other fruits that may not come to mind as readily. Rose hips are actually the fruit of the rose and an excellent source of vitamin C. Split the hip open and remove the seeds. They can be eaten raw or cooked with sugar to make a fine jam. The really nice thing with rose hips is that none of them are poisonous. Since I also like fine beverages to wash all this down, I know exactly where to look. It’s no problemo. The com­ mon mint with its familiar flavor and square stem can add zip to a club soda or more commonly used to make a mint DowElanco supports industry with new program DowElanco offers the Responsibility Comes First product stewardship program for 1994. By purchasing DowElanco products, businesses can receive safety items or make donations to trade associations. “Our first concern is always the responsible use of our products,” says Mark Urbanowski, DowElanco communi­ cations manager. “In addition to manufacturing products, we also offer educational materials and protection equip­ ment to minimize risks and to promote an atmosphere which allows for quick response in the event of an acci­ dent.” Businesses can redeem their DowElanco purchase points for spill response kits, personal safety kits, decon­ tamination kits, Right-To-Know books, and a “When a Crisis Strikes” video. For more information or to participate in the program, call (800) 352-6776 or contact a local DowElanco sales representative or distributor. herbal tea. Other teas can be made from a variety of plants including witch hazel leaves (not for everyone’s taste) or sweet vernal grass. The dry leaves of this fragrant ornamen­ tal grass can be quite refreshing as well. You’ve read my confession and now read my plea for help. Please help me dine out better by planning your plantings with their culinary content in mind. It slows the game rate terribly if I have to scour the course to find the right plants. The roughs can be a great place to plant a snack, and, with the right selection of trees, I can always be close to a dessert. This would be good around the 16th to 18th holes, for example. Plantings around the club house and cart paths can provide for teas, salads, and starchy snacks. I wouldn’t ask you to let your enthusiasm for this deprive you of your better judgment. Leave the greens and the fairways to the golfers. With apologies and acknowledgment to Euell Gibbons, Al Fresco Thanks for the snacks. Al TurfNet membership offers you: ♦ A database of peer user experience ♦ Transaction histories of selling prices in your area ♦ A secondary market for your used equipment ♦ Objective turf equipment analyses ♦ TurfNet Monthly for updates on new technology, new products, computerization, management issues ♦ TurfNet BBS electronic bulletin board service enhancing communication among superintendents ♦ An advocacy voice for your interests in the marketplace 21 brandywine road, skillman, new jersey 08558 call toll free 1.800.314.7929 fax 908.359.3389 marks the spot by Ed Walsh Most of us look at Golf Digest’s Top 100 Golf Course listing when it comes out every two years. It’s always interesting to see what courses are new and which older courses are removed from that list. own, Essex County C.C., which for the first few weeks of the Spring only had 17 holes in play. We actually were playing 18 with one temporary green because the first green was rebuilt last fall and just wasn’t ready until early May. I have to admit that I actually enjoyed posting lower scores myself because this hole played shorter, and we utilized one of those 6" cups that even Pete Pedrazzi can hit (most of the time from really close range). You know, we may be starting a new and exciting trend with this. I can see it now, a whole set of new criteria for listing top courses. The best 13-hole course with a bar and grill is Podunk Golf Club, designed by Desmond Airhead; Steve (no cameras allowed) Malikowski, superintendent. The best 15-hole course without a liquor license is Empty Country Club, designed by Sharps Buckler; Bob Prickett, superintendent. The best six-hole course with a boat dock and jet ski ramp is The Water Way Club, designed by Murph the Surf (who recently graduated from the Harvard Landscape Design Program while serving six to 10 on a robbery conviction); Tom Grimac, superin­ tendent. You know, I am going to call Golf Digest, Golf Maga­ zine, and Golf World and see if they think my idea has any merit. Better check with Jay Mottola and Gene Westmoreland and Steve Foehl first though. They know golf, and they know a good idea when they hear it. Avoid skin cancers At least 90% of all skin cancers are caused by long-term, unprotected exposure to the sun, according to the Mayo Clinic. By the very nature of golf course work, long days in the sun are unavoidable, but skin cancers can be avoided. The Mayo Clinic’s recommendations for avoiding skin problems include: 1. Wear protective clothing; 2. Wear a broad-brimmed hat; 3. Use sunscreen with a sun protection (SPF) of at least 15. The Greenerside is going to take that list, or at least this column is going to take that list, a little further. We are going to rate the top courses in the country that have less than 18 but more than nine holes. Now, in typical Ed Walsh fashion, most of you who bother to read this column are starting to get a little confused. You say what courses have less than 18 but more than nine holes and are worth a damn. I say read on because there are three courses in our own state that are listed in the “Top Ten.” I won’t mention in what order they fall because, as we all know, when you reach “Top Ten” status the order just doesn’t matter. You’re in a very elite group and that’s all that does matter. So here we go, get ready. We have two 16-hole courses, and they are Rockaway River Country Club in Denville and Cedar Hill Country Club in Livingston. Both are going through some major renovation, and each has two holes closed. Now you would think that the members at these outstanding facilities would be really annoyed, but both supers, Wayne (Long Ball) Foster at R.R.C.C. and Dennis (Legs) Wrede at C.H.C.C., tell me that isn’t the case. As a matter of fact, both mem­ berships are starting to get used to posting lower scores and are asking if their course can’t be kept this way indefi­ nitely. That certainly sounds like an idea that Jack Martin or Skip Cameron would come up with also. Wayne told a story about a bridge on his course that collapsed under the weight of a back hoe, and how his membership stood around and cheered when they learned that the problem with the bridge may delay the opening of the holes affected by the renovation. Dennis relays a similar experience when he seeded the two holes under reconstruction, and a heavy rain washed most of his efforts away. The Ladies 9-Hole Committee presented him with a gift certificate and asked if he would seed the area again just before the next thunder shower. I guess, like Jack and Skip, most folks do like to see a lower score on their card, even if it means you played less holes. Must be a physi­ ological thing. Now the other course listed in this publication is my Splendor in the grass by Dr. Bob This is really adult reading, and the warnings requiring the reader to be 18 or older or accompa­ nied by an adult are hereby invoked. Grass plants, like all living things, must reproduce to maintain the species. Much like humans, age has little to do with a grass plant’s ability to reproduce, but its genetics, the environment, and the physical condition of the individual plant do. Genetics predetermine whether a species is capable of reproducing without sex, called apomixis, or whether it needs sex, or whether it can reproduce with and without sex. Genetics also determines whether the plant can be cross fertilized or self-fertilized, or whether the course of the pollen matters at all. Some species, under certain conditions, can hybridize with other species. Vegetative reproduction is very important to a grass plant’s ability to spread out and cover large areas. Rhizomes, tillers, and stolons are the usual mechanisms "I save an hour or more a day on maintenance time." "Before, it was almost impossible to see what I was doing, let alone repair it. Now everything is right where I can see it . . . sitting down!" "I never want to work without a TRIONIM LIFT again!" Ed Ward Golf Course Mechanic THE ONLY LIFT SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR GOLF COURSE EQUIPMENT The TRION tM LIFT will pick up all 3- and 4-wheel golf equipment up to 4,500 lbs. NO ADAPTERS ... NO ADJUSTMENTS ... NO HASSLE Distributed by Sleepy Hollow Turf Management For Information call (717)456-5172 TRION Sleepy Hollow Turf Management RR #2 Box 81 Delhi, PA 17314 Trion Lifts, Inc. • P.O. Box 697 • Greeley, CO 80631 for vegetative reproduction in grasses. Physical condition determines which direction a plant’s energy will go toward reproduction, often determining whether or not the plant will produce seed or how vigorous its tillers will be. All of the sexual action in grasses takes place in the grass flower. The flower of a grass is very small and is When it comes to sex, size, timing, and position all have exaggerated examples in the grass family. Corn is actually a giant grass. found in the part of the plant that is usually referred to as the seedhead. The actual flower is covered by tiny bracts called spikelets. Unless you really look closely you will not see the usual flower parts. Miniature anthers filled with pollen and a miniature stigma which receives the pollen are all enclosed by these bracts. The seed is actually the fruit of the grass. Some grasses pollinate with their spikelets open, and some prefer to keep it all in the family and pollinate with their spikelets closed. All of the above is really the basics. Splendor in the grass can take some bizarre turns as well. When it comes to sex, size, timing, and position all have exaggerated ex­ amples in the grass family. Corn is actually a giant grass. The corn kernels on the cob are the grass seeds, and nature has removed the protective spikelets. The corn silks are the stigmas down which the pollen travels. Corn has the largest of everything in the grass family. Some species of bamboo flowers so infrequently that they are suspected of flowering only once in 100 years while many common weeds will flower all season long. Although the vast majority of grass species are wind pollinated, in the rain forests of Central America there are grass species that are pollinated with only the assistance of ants. In the Pinelands of New Jersey, a grass species called Amphicarpum purshii produces seeds on a seedhead as well as seeds that are produced on under­ ground stems. With all the reproduction going on, it’s no wonder that Mother Nature has cooked up over 7,500 different species of grass. Grass has been put to use as a food crop, as forage for animals, for soil conservation, bamboo for shelter, wildlife management, and, of course, for turf. The next time you take your mower over the course, you will have a far better appreciation for what you are cutting off! For the record Editor's Note: This letter was written to The Record by the Alliance for Environmental Concerns to set the record straight on the GCSAA’s mortality study on golf course superintendents. GCSANJ is a supporting member of the Alliance. Ms. Marilee Loboda Braue Consumer Watch The Record 150 River Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601 Re: “Getting to the root of pesticides,” June 5, 1994 I would like to comment on your article of June 5. 1. Related to the cause-of-death study for the Golf Course Superintendents Association, the University of Iowa director of that study cautioned against drawing any cause and effect relationships, especially in regard to pesticides, from the preliminary study. The most frequent cancers in this study were lung and brain, both, as you state, most commonly related to smoking. However, other cancer deaths in the study, such as stomach, bladder, kidney, pancreatic, and colon also PAVELEC BROS. Golf Course Construction Co. Inc. 98 Evergreen Avenue Nutley, NJ 07110 Specializing in all phases of Golf Course Construction Field Drainage/Landscaping Excavation Tony Pavelec (201) 667-1643 Emil Pavelec (201) 939-6182 have been linked by researchers to smoking. 2. Similarly, you mention non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and 2,4,D use. An extensive EPA report (March 1994) indicates not enough evidence “to conclude ... a cause and effect relationship ...” 3. Related to “natural” pesticides, many of these com­ pounds—such as pyrethrum—are toxic. This doesn’t mean that they can’t be used as safely as any other pesticide, but it does mean that label directions should be followed closely, just as with synthetic products. It is important for your readers to know that the label directions on every synthetic pesticide product represent 8- 10 years of research involving as many as 120 or more EPA-mandated tests, many with laboratory animals and specific for human health and safety. Even then, only about one in 20,000 makes it through this extensive research and regulatory process to market shelves. Ilona Gray Executive Director Alliance for Environmental Concerns EVERGREEN GOLF COURSE TURF COVERS Standard and Custom sizes Evergreen is the nation’s leading turf growth cover that’s used for: New course construction Winter protection of greens Early spring green-up Longer, stronger root growth Quicker seed germination For full information call TOLL FREE 1-800-387-5808 COVERMASTER Covermaster Inc. 100 Westmore Dr., 11 -D, Rexdale, Ont. M9V 5C3, Tel. (416) 745-1811, FAX 416-74-COVER (742-6837) STORR TRACTOR CO. 1385 Lakeland Ave. Bohemia, L.I., N.Y. 11716 516-589-5222 3191 U.S. Highway 22 Somerville, N. J. 08876 201-722-9830 Cook College announces Turf Management School Applications are being accepted for the two-year Rutgers Professional Golf Turf Management School, one of the nation’s leading professional education programs in golf turf management. The cour presented in two 10-week sessions over two years and requires two seasons of supervised field experience where students apply skills developed in the class­ room. In this program, students learn technical skills required of all superintendents such as turfgrass establishment, maintenance of greens and tees, plant pathology, ento­ mology, and weed identifica­ tion, as well as management, computer, and communication skills all managers should master. The course is recommended for golf course superin­ tendents, assistant superintendents, greenskeepers, irriga­ tion technicians, and mechanics who have a minimum of two years of experience working in turf management. se is The Fall Session will be held October 3-December 9, 1994, and the Winter Session will be held January 2-March 10, 1995. Applications for the Fall Session are due on August 5, 1994, and applications for the Winter Session are due on October 21, 1994. To request a brochure and application or for more information, please contact the Cook College Office of Con­ tinuing Professional Education, P.O. Box 231, New Brunswick, NJ 08903-0231, (908) 932-9271. IF YOU WERE A TREE . . . WHO WOULD YOU TRUST? Over 70 Years of Excellence in Tree Care Golf Course Programs Better Than PAR OUR GOAL IS TO PRESERVE YOUR TREES! ALPINE the CARE of TREES (201) 445-4949 SINCE 1919 Computer bulletin board lists variety of topics Landscape contractors can have instant access to the full text of New Jersey’s regulations affecting pesticide use, current weather conditions, degree day data, and more on the Rutgers Cooperative Extension computer bulletin board. The board now features a full set of summary regulation fact sheets covering topics from Farmland Assessment to immigration laws and open burning. Pesticide control regulations are searchable by the use of key words, an easy way to find selected information. Wholesale prices from the USDA/Chicago/San Francisco terminal markets on ornamentals are posted. Other features include: daily agricultural weather forecast; listings of New Jersey farmers who produce and sell agricultural products of all types; “AG A.M.,” a national summary of farm related news from the USDA; the financial tip of the week; a calendar of educational events and classes; the horticultural engineering report; the Exten­ sion Insect and Disease newsletter; and, of course, Land­ scape IPM Notes. All Extension Fact Sheets and Bulletins, which feature information on everything from how to control a termite to caring for spray equipment, are avail­ able. The Rutgers Extension Computer bulletin board can be reached by callers equipped with a com­ puter and modem at (800) 722-0335 for a free trial use. For only $15 a year, registered users are granted 40 minutes per day on the 800 line. For more informa­ tion, call (201) 579- 0985. On Course Professional Turf Fertilizers Developed to meet the highest standards in turfgrass management • Golf Courses • Athletic Fields • Cemeteries • Corporate Parks • Commercial Turf West Coast Affiliate SEED RESEARCH OF OREGON, INC. P.O. BOX 373 DAYTON, NJ 08810 800-522-4769 Committed to providing reliable, dependable service and the best in quality lawn and garden products.For more information call Twin Light at 800-522-4769 and ask for Gerald Fountain (former Superintendent at Trenton Country Club) The truth leaks out by Steve Malikowski, CGCS I had planned on beginning my article this month on a serious note. For quite some time now I had been considering running for a director’s position on the GCSAA Board of Directors. But due to recent developments that I have been made aware of, I have appar­ ently blown any possible chance of that happening. Also, for the sake of The Greenerside, I have decided that I will no longer write for this great newsletter and have decided to step down as a contributing writer. Ilona and her staff have done a great job with this newsletter for years and will continue to do so without my satires. In fact, I don’t know if every­ one is aware, but The Greenerside received the top award from GCSAA for Chapter Newsletters in Dallas at the Conference. I would like to congratulate her and her staff Pro-Lawn™ Products you need, people you can count on. Whatever your turf-management needs. • FERTILIZERS • CHEMICALS • TURF SEEDS • NATURAL BASE ORGANIC FERTILIZERS • HYDROSEEDING & EROSION CONTROL PRODUCTS • CUSTOM MIXING • SUSTANE tm • POLYON Pro-Lawn has a turf-management expert in your area. Lake Hopatcong, NJ Craig Lambert 201-663-3368 Langhorne, PA Ingred Kern 215-750-1732 Jacobstown, NJ Brad Simpkins 609-758-7620 The future of turf management prolawn. 1-800-437-9618 Fax: 315-449-6599 for a great job in producing this award­ winning newsletter. To my knowledge she has not publicly received any recognition of this achievement with the exception of a short blurb from Ed Walsh in the last edition of The Greenerside. I do not want to jeopardize the chances of any future awards for her or this newsletter. It appears that my Gary Trudeau- style of writing has offended the industrial people who run things at GCSAA; so to avoid any more problems or embarrassment, I have decided that this is the end of my writing career, and this is my last article. Turf fact sheets available Two color fact sheets have recently been released that deal with the identification and control of root-infecting diseases of cool season turf. The first (Fact Sheet #FS166) is entitled, “An Integrated Approach to Necrotic Ring Spot Control in Turf.” The second fact sheet (#FS162) is entitled, “An Integrated Approach to Summer Patch Control in Turf.” The cost of each publication is $1.00, and they may be obtained from local County Extension offices or by writing to the Publications Distribution Center, Cook College, Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08903. RALPH McGILLAN Excavating Contractor Specializing in Lakes & Ponds Over 25 years experience in building new ponds, enlarging & redesigning existing ponds. Can get all DEP permits (609) 655-2281 74 Petty Road, Cranbury, NJ The rest of the story by Nigel Wisskowski, CGCS CERTIFIED GOOD CHEAP SHOTS The following is the opinion of this writer and not necessarily that of the BOD or The Greenerside staff. Not long ago I had a telephone conversation with Steve Malikowski down at Cape May National, which has prompted me to offer this small piece of LITERary infor­ mation. It was an interesting conversation to say the least. I learned that he was resigning as a contributing writer for The Greenerside. He feels he needs to do this. His LITERary wit will surely be missed. His satires in the past were well done; certainly a refreshing change from the total seriousness of this turf business. It was always interesting to see how superintendents can cope with stress through humor. No matter how bad the weather is where we are, somewhere else the weather is worse. It is a shame that some of his satirical literary genius has been labeled Are your golfers afraid to pick a golf ball out of your water hazards? If your golf course is plagued by E.P. Aeration has developed a unique Ozone injection system to clear up Eutro- phic ponds, lakes and reservoirs. green, smelly water-lf it’s not as nice as you would like. Here is a natural and environ­ mentally safe cure. In water, ozone destroys bacteria, viruses, mold and mildew, and eliminates spores, cycts, yeast and fungus. It helps remove iron, manganese and other trace metals which make water dull. Ozone keeps your water soft, clean and sparkling clear. WHAT DOES OZONE DO? FOR MORE INFORMATION. PLEASE CALL. Aquarius Irrigation Supply, Inc. 1120 Goffle Rd, Hawthorne, N.J. 07506 201-423-0222 Hamilton Business Pk, Franklin Rd, Dover N.J. 201-366-2355 307 Washington St, Conshohocken, PA 19428 610-941-6662 offensive and unwarranted by certain pompous groups of individuals. Next, congratulations to The Greenerside in receiving the award for best Chapter Newsletter from GCSAA at the Dallas Conference and Show. Ilona, you must be proud of what you and your writers have done. I guess the award was given in spite of Steve’s writing, not because of it. Well, anyway, let me move on. I have been able to tap a reliable source of information and will be taking over Steve’s old job with The Greenerside. Besides, I hear he is too busy to write any more now that he has returned to the Board of Directors of GCSANJ. Welcome back, Steve. I understand he also is trying to get his Chapter Delegate job back. Wouldn’t that be ironic? We all hope he gets back his former position as National Hospitality Suite Coordina­ tor too. We never ran out of beer when he had the check­ book. I understand that this past year’s Hospitality Suite bill came right on budget. Steve would never dare to do that. Of course, it’s easy when you serve Old German by the keg. SAVE TIME • WATER • MONEY Get your course on AXIS the Amercian made porous ceramic. Incorporate AXIS into the root zone Aerify or Rototill • Increase the gas exchange in the soil • Resist compaction • Increase water holding • Increase percolation AGRO-TECH 2000, Inc. Exclusive distributor of Break-Thru a non ionic wetting agent Agroroots/Marine-Gro organic biostimulants AXIS a diatomaceous earth soil amendment 908/922-4743 215/598-3132 Wanted: Vintage turf equipment The Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council and The Penn­ sylvania State University have announced they are seeking additional vintage turfgrass equipment for the Mascaro/Steiniger Turfgrass Museum scheduled to open on August 10, 1994, during the Penn State Turfgrass Field Days. A sizable amount of equipment has already been assembled and is presently being refurbished. An appropri­ ate name plate placed on each contribution will acknowl­ edge the gift to the museum. A list of the current equipment is available to potential donors so that duplication will not occur. If donors can call, fax, or write to the following people, they will send you a listing of the equipment: George W. Hamilton Landscape Management Research Center Orchard Road University Park, PA 16802 Phone (814) 865-3007 Fax (814) 863-3479 • Golf Courses • Estates • Athletic Fields • Commercial • Floating Aerators • Custom Built Pumping Systems AQUA-FLO, INC. 320 Basin Road • Hammonton, NJ 08037 (609) 561-1777 1-800-524-0895 (outside NJ) 4155A Westfax Drive • Chantilly, VA 22021 (703) 968-7081 Christine E. King Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council P.O. Box 417 Bellefonte, PA 16823-0417 Phone(814)355-8010 Phone (814) 355-7240 All vintage equipment should be shipped to the Land­ scape Management Research Center, Pennsylvania State University, Orchard Road, University Park, PA 16802. This is an opportunity for people in turfgrass manage­ ment to become a permanent part of this Museum. 914-699-4437 495 New Rochelle Road - Office 2B Bronxville, New York 10708 GOLF COURSE A R C H I T EC T S TURF PRODUCTS CORPORATION 47 Howell Road, Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046 We Specialize in the odd & the unusual • GRASS SEED • TURF TOOLS • COURSE ACCESSORIES • FUNGICIDES • HERBICIDES •TURF EQUIPMENT Call us at: 201-263-1234 Chemicals and cancer No issue creates a greater stir among the public about farming practices than food safety and the occasional headline about the problem of pesticide residue on fresh produce. Yet the American Cancer Society vigorously promotes the heavy consumption of fruits and vegetables as one of the best preventive techniques to ward off cancer. What goes on here? Speaking recently to a group organized by the Ameri­ can Council of Science and Health was Dr. Bruce Ames, a professor at Berkeley and the foremost expert on cancer research in the country. Dr. Ames strongly disputes the casual connection between environmental sources and an increased risk of cancer. He asserts, “The vast bulk of chemicals ingested by humans is natural. For example, 99.99% of the pesticides we eat are naturally present in plants to ward off insects and other predators.” Further, he adds, “Reducing exposure to the .01% that are synthetic either to individual chemicals or to mixtures will not reduce cancer rates. On the contrary, fruits and vegetables are essential dietary cancer fighters and making them more expensive by reducing synthetic pesticide use will increase cancer.” In his talk, Dr. Ames claimed that aging and degenera­ tive diseases of aging like cancer appear to be due to the oxidants produced as by-products of normal metabolism. In other words, there is a normal “background” level of cancer in people. Beyond that, human activity can elevate the risks of getting cancer. According to Ames, the three leading causes are: smoking, dietary imbalances (excess fat and calories, inadequate fruits/vegetables, fiber, calcium) and chronic infections leading to “chronic inflammation.” He says past occupational exposures (like asbestos exposure in smokers) might cause 2% of current human cancer, and industrial or synthetic chemical pollution causes less than 1 % in his view. He writes, “The age-adjusted cancer death rate in the U.S. for all cancers combined (excluding smok­ ing-caused) has remained steady since 1950, while life expectancy increases each year. We are the healthiest we have ever been in human history.” Reprinted with permission from the New Jersey Farm Bureau’s This Week, Vol. XXXII. No. 16, April 23, 1994. STORMY ACRES has relocated to NEW JERSEY! NOW ACCEPTING ORDERS FOR THE FALL! Call for Details & Pricing BENTGRASS SOD Washed & With Soil All sod is guaranteed 100% NO QUESTIONS ASKED! • Poa annua, weed and disease free • You won't find a higher quality of bentgrass sod available for putting greens and tees • Maintained as a putting surface at our farm • Penncross, Pennlinks, Providence and Southshore • Lowest height of cut 1/8"-5/32." • Brushed-verticut-topdressed etc. • All sod is grown on a sand base • Future layering is eliminated. • Least amount of thatch in industry for washed bentgrass sod, which eliminates future problems of puffiness, scalping and the need for heavy topdressing application. Stormy Acres Forrest Lane Carneys Point, NJ 08069 (609) 299-5109 Back Nine NO WAY OUT According to the United States Product Safety Commis­ sion, the sport with the greatest emergency room admissions is bicycling with 649,536 admissions in 1992. Golf playing led to 37,556 admis­ sions. Boxing was responsible for 5,303 admissions, and even table tennis can be a hazard with 1,455 emergency room admissions. The latest sport, in-line roller skating, is expected to bring over 83,000 people through the hospital doors this year. When interpreting data of this sort, you need to consider the number of players and the amount of time spent at the sport. The relative number of boxers, for example, makes this a riskier sport, while the millions of rounds of golf played and the few admissions makes this a relatively safer sport. The lesson, however, is there is no recreation without risk, and there is risk when you don’t recreate. Mosquitoes are twice as attracted to the color blue as to any other color. That’s useful if nature attacked us only with mosquitoes. Other insects love the color yellow, especially yellow jackets and hornets. Some insects are attracted to carbon dioxide (hold your breath), while others like the smell of after shave and perfume. Still other enjoy that “You need a shower odor.” Body heat is another attractant. What to do? Conduct tick checks and spray repellent and hope it doesn’t attract some while repelling others. If you’re outdoors, there is no way around getting bugged. Beautiful Solution Number 6. Crown & Geyser - 2 HP Standard High Volume Flow (HVF) - 1 HP Underwater •— Cable Disconnect Plume - 5 HP Interchangeable Nozzles 120 Volt Underwater Lighting * Patented, High-Efficiency Stainless Steel Propeller Diffuser System • Industry's First and Only 3 Year Motor Warranty No Seal or Internal Maintenance for 3 Years Guaranteed 1/2 to 10 HP Stainless Steel Housing with the Most Energy Efficient Motor Available Beauty Beneath the Surface Aqua Master is the industry's only manufacturer of UL LISTED aerating fountain pump systems. Take a closer look at our beautiful solution to your water quality problems. Superior Aquatic Management Systems KOONZ Sprinkler Supply, Inc. (201)379-9314 PATRON DIRECTORY AGREVO Manufacturer of Fine Turf Chemicals Shaun M. Barry (908) 846-8173 AGRO-TECH 2000, INC. Axis/Break-Thru/Agroroots Peter Van Drumpt - Chris Des Garennes Rich Brandel, (609) 275-3995 ALPINE, THE CARE OF TREES Complete tree care Michael Cook; (201) 445-4949 AQUA-FLO, INC. Irrigation Equip. Distrib. Phil Demarco - Jerry Purcell (609) 561-1777; (800) 542-0895 AQUATROLS CORP. OF AMERICA Manufacturer of Water Management Products. Andy Moore - Phil O'Brien (800) 257-7797 ATLANTIC MILLS INC. Tee Accessories, Towels, Detergent Peter Donnelly - Jack Brady - Laura Irving (908) 774-4882 JAMES BARRETT ASSOCIATES, INC. Irrigation Consulting & Design Jim Barrett; (201) 744-8237 SKY BERGEN sales to the Professional Turf Industry S.J. Bergen, Jr.; (201) 635-6469 BLUE RIDGE PEAT FARMS Topdressing, Sand Gene Evans; (717) 443-9596 BRUEDAN CORP. Yamaha Golf Cars/Yamahauler Peter Siegel - Michael Gesmundo (800)535-1500 ALAN G. CRUSE INC. Golf Course Materials Alan Cruse - Jim Cruse; (201) 227-7183 DE BUCK'S SOD FARM Sod Farm Leonard M. DeBuck; (914) 258-4131 DISPRO DISPLAY PRODUCTS CORP. Sign and Display Manufacturing Jerry Baine; (908) 988-5400 DOUBLE EAGLE EQUIPMENT CO., INC. Professional Turf Equipment Clyde Ashton - Stan Stevenson Jerry Pearlman; (908) 329-9292 EARTH WORKS Natural Organic Products Soil First Consulting Joel Simmons, (800) 732-TURF EGYPT FARMS, INC. Greens Topdressing, Construction Mixes, Bentgrass Sod Jeff Lacour - John Strickland - Dean Snyder (410) 335-3700; (800) 899-7645 E-Z-GO/TEXTRON, INC. New & Used Golf Cars & Turf Equip. Tom Sauer, Branch Mgr.; John Myers, No. & Cen. NJ; Paul Proter, So. NJ (609) 586-4000 FERTL-SOIL TURF SUPPLY, INC. Topdressings, golf course supplies Marty Futyma - Cathy Futyma (908) 322-6132 FINCH TURF EQUIPMENT INC. John Deere Turf Distributor Sam Baird - Dennis Wagner - Tom Wojcik - Ray Finch, (800) 78-DEERE FISHER & SON CO. Turf & Hort. Supplies Alan Phillips - Frank Fisher - Mike Fisher (609) 478-6704 FLANAGAN'S LANDSCAPE-IRRIGATION CONTRACTOR, INC. Landscape Irrigation Contruction Robert J. Flanagan - Roger P. Flanagan, Jr. - Christine Flanagan (908) 469-7782 GOLF CARS, INC. Club Car Golf Cars and Utility Vehicles, Sales, Service, Leasing Jon F. Schneider, Genl. Mgr. - John A. Czerwinski, Rep. - Linda Wunsch- Szymanski, Sls. Mgr. (215) 340-0880; FAX (215) 340-1634 GRASS ROOTS, INC. Golf Course Supplies Ken Kubik - Ginny Kubik - Jay McKenna (201)361-5943 REES JONES, INC. Golf Course Design Rees Jones; (201)744-4031 STEPHEN KAY, GOLF COURSE ARCHITECTS Master Planning, Renovation, New Course Design Stephen Kay - Ron Turek (914) 699-4437; FAX (914) 699-4479 KOONZ SPRINKLER SUPPLY INC. Distributors Turf Irrigation William F. Koonz, Jr. (201) 379-9314 LEBANON TURF PRODUCTS Fertilizer Manufacturer-Grass Seed Alan Kulibaba - Chris Zelley (800) 233-0628; NJ (201) 329-4011 LEON'S SOD FARMS Sod Samuel Leon; (908) 996-2255 LESCO, INC. Manufacturer & distributor of Green Industry products Greg Moran - Lance Seeton (800) 321-5325 LOFTS SEED INC. Grass Seed Company John Morrissey - Dr. Richard Hurley - Mary Beth Ruh; (800) 526-3890 LONGO INDUSTRIES Electric motor, Pump repair, Sales Bob Tal - Jeff Bessemer (201) 539-4141 RALPH MCGILLAN EXCAVATING Lakes & Ponds Ralph McGillan; (609) 655-2281 JOSEPH M. MERCADANTE, INC. Paving, Excavating, Cart Paths, Tee and Trap Construction, Golf Course Construction Joseph Mercadante - Robert Mercadante (201) 467-8622; FAX (201) 467-8419 THE SCOTTS COMPANY - PROTURF DIV. Turf Fertilizers, Growth Regulators, Seed & Protectants; Fran Berdine, (914) 361-4105 Steve Rudich, (215) 253-4003, Jim George, (800) 543-006 SEACOAST LABORATORIES, INC. Fertilizers, Grass Seed Gerald Fountain; (800) 522-4769 SHEARON ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN Golf Course Design and Construction Chip Kern (609) 466-0666; (215) 828-5488 STORR TRACTOR COMPANY Turf Maintenance Equipment, Irrigation Mary Lou Deschamps - Gene Tarulli - Paul Granger (908) 722-9830 METRO MILORGANITE, INC. Turfgrass Supplies Rick Apgar - Scott Apgar - Joe Stahl (914) 666-3171; FAX (914) 666-9183 WILLIAM STOTHOFF CO. INC. Well & Pump Service David C. Stothoff - William E. Snyder (908) 782-2717 MONTCO PRODUCTS CORPORATION Soil Wetting Agents Bob Oechsle; (215) 836-4992 ♦ NATIONAL SEED COMPANY Lawn Seed Ken Griepentrog - George Rosenburg - Sky Bergen; (908) 247-3100 P & P EXCAVATING INC. Excavating, Ponds & Lakes Bob Laner (201) 227-2030; (201) 227-2819 PARTAC PEAT CORPORATION Top-Dressing & Construction Mixes, Golf Hole Targets, Turf Blankets Jim Kelsey; (908) 637-4191 PAVALEC BROS. GOLF COURSE CONSTRUCTION CO., INC. Golf Course Construction Tony Pavelec; (201) 667-1643 Emil Pavelec; (201) 939-6182 PLANT FOOD COMPANY, INC. Manufacturer of Fluid Fertilizers Ted Platz - Anthony "Rip" Rippel (609) 448-0935; (800) 562-1291 FAX (609) 443-8038 PRO-LAWN PRODUCTS INC. Professional Turf Seed, Fertilizer & Chemicals Craig Lambert; (201) 663-3368 Ingrid Kern; (215) 750-1732 Brad Simpkins; (609) 758-7620 GEO. SCHOFIELD CO., INC. Topdress, Bunker Sands, Construction Materials Supply Kevin Schofield - Robert Carson - Thomas Casmer (908) 356-0858 STULL EQUIPMENT COMPANY Industrial Turf Equipment John Barrow - Charlie McGill (800) 724-1024 SWEENEY SEED COMPANY Turfgrass Seed Jeffrey Shockley - Andrew Sweeney (215) 275-2710 TEE AND GREEN SOD INC. Bentgrass, fine fescue and ryegrass sod blends, washed sod David Wallace; (401) 789-8177 TERRE CO. OF N.J. Seed, Fertilizer, Nursery Stock Byron Johnson - Bryan Bolehala - PatO'Neil (201)473-3393 TURF PRODUCTS CORP. Golf Course Supplies Ernie Rizzio; 334-6684 Buddy Rizzio; 335-5499 Ron Lake; 875-8246 (201) 263-1234 WA CLEARY CHEMICAL Turf & Ornamintal Products Bob Leslie - Mike Bandy (800) 524-1662 WILFRED MCDONALD, INC. Turf Equipment Specialists Dennis DeSanctis - BlairQuin - Mike Pelrine (201) 365-6801 STEVEN WILLAND INC. Turf Equipment Distributor Mark Ericson - Bruce Pye - Bill Rapp (201) 579-5656 ♦ New Patrons for 1994 What do the superintendents of these prestigious golf courses have in common? They use the services of... KOONZ SPRINKLER SUPPLY and SERVICE EXCELLENCE • Complete inventory • Service assistance and technical support • 30 years of service to the golf industry QUALITY PRODUCT LINES Distributors of: • Nightscaping • NDS Drainage Products • ADS Drainage Products Rain Bird Keeping the golf world greener.™ PlantStar INCORPORA TED Fertigation Solutions To Grow On Tempest CONTROLLED AIRSTREAMS GAS & ELECTRIC FANS PORTABLE, PERMANENT, OSCILLATING Superior Aquatic Management Systems MASTER DISTRIBUTOR KOONZ Sprinkler Supply, Inc. Golf Division • 201-379-9314 39 Waverly Avenue, P.O. Box 55, Springfield, NJ 07081 • 201-379-9314 Fax 201-379-6504 2479 Yellow Springs Road, P.O. Box 433, Devault, PA 19432 • 610-647-1604 For sales information in Northern New Jersey/Southern New York State please call Chris Woolbert or for Southern New Jersey/Eastern Pennsylvania sales please call Robb Werley